Surya Narayan Temple

Surya Narayan Temple stands within the Ranakpur temple complex, adjacent to the Parsvanath Temple, and is dedicated to the Sun God Surya. The temple is distinguished by its circular tiered projections covering the outer walls and a central relief carving showing Suryadev riding his seven-horse chariot. Unlike the Jain temples, this is a Hindu shrine that has coexisted within the same sacred precinct for centuries. The interplay of light through its carved screens at different times of day produces an effect comparable to the colour-shifting marble columns of the Chaumukha temple nearby.